China’s Off-Road Champion Returns: Haval H9’s Latest Release Sets New Standards for SUVs

Great Wall Motor is a company whose name originates from the Great Wall of China. Established in 1984, it did not produce sedans until 2010 and has focused on mid to large-sized vehicles, becoming the largest SUV and pickup truck manufacturer in China.

They target the Chinese and global markets through various brands such as Haval, Wey, Tank, and Ora. The company, which already has tremendous influence, is expected to significantly impact the large SUV market as it opens an official production line for the Haval H9 on May 8, 2024.

China’s strongest off-roader returns with a new model

The existing Haval H9, currently on sale, was launched in 2014 and was aimed at the off-road SUV market dominated by American and Japanese imported brands in China. After its launch, it became a flagship model and was selected as the number one military vehicle in countries such as Bangladesh and Cambodia.

The new H9, unveiled at the 2024 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition, is a sizeable off-road SUV with a body length of 5,070 mm (199.6 inches), width of 1,960 mm (77.2 inches for 5-seater), width of 1,976 mm ( 77.8 inches for 7-seater), height of 1,930 mm (76.0 inches), and wheelbase of 2,850 mm (112.2 inches). Four exterior colors are available: green, gray, white, and matte black and both 5-seater and 7-seater layouts are available.

Off-roader SUV Identity
What’s Haval H9’s powertrain?

The Haval H9 adopted a square body. It was equipped with an external spare tire, a towing function, and three differential locks in the center, rear, and front, further emphasizing its identity as a hardcore off-road SUV. In addition, the gasoline model is released with 17/18/19-inch rims, and the diesel model is launched only with 18-inch rims.

In terms of powertrain, Great Wall’s new Haval H9 is powered by a 2.0 T gasoline engine with an output of 165 kW and a torque of 39.2 kg.m and an 8-speed automatic transmission. If customers choose the diesel version, they can be offered a 2.4 T engine with an output of 137 kW, 48.9 kg.m torque, and a 9-speed automatic transmission.

The interior is composed of two colors: black and brown. Most physical buttons remain the same, with the three-spoke multi-function steering wheel, instrument cluster, 14.6-inch floating central control screen, and bulky gear lever standing out. The rear seats fold automatically, making it easy to secure more space.

The official launch is at the end of 2024, and the starting price is known to be approximately $23,688.